Washington: Former President Donald Trump has stated that he is not prepared to follow Israel’s recent move to recognize Somaliland’s independence from Somalia. In a telephone interview with the New York Post, Trump expressed skepticism about the significance of Somaliland, questioning its relevance and dismissing its strategic offerings.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Trump made his remarks in response to Israel’s historic decision on Friday, when Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced Israel’s formal recognition of Somaliland as a separate entity. Netanyahu revealed that he would discuss the development with Trump during their planned meeting on Monday. The Israeli Prime Minister also mentioned Somaliland’s interest in joining the Abraham Accords during a video call with Somaliland President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi.
Trump, however, appeared uninterested in Somaliland’s proposal to provide the U.S. with access to a port on the Gulf of Aden, a location deemed strategically significant. He downplayed the offer, stating, “Big deal,” and emphasized that his discussions with Netanyahu would focus on more pressing issues, particularly those concerning the Gaza Strip.
Trump highlighted that the upcoming talks with Netanyahu would prioritize the Gaza ceasefire, which he brokered in October, and ongoing reconstruction efforts under a UN-approved framework. Despite Israel’s historic move, Trump remains firm in his decision-making process, noting, “Everything is under study . We’ll study it. I study a lot of things and always make great decisions and they turn out to be correct.”